"At this moment in time to believe we have an excellent case to appeal," he told Get Surrey. "We have overcome all but one of the statutory objections.

"It was disappointing that both the officer's report and debate at the planning committee [at Reigate & Banstead Borough Council] didn't recognise that fully.

"It's important for us as a business to have that competitive footing, that's all we are asking for."

Mr Horne also criticised councillors who poured scorn on the aerodrome's business case which said the airport, based in South Nutfield, needed the runway to secure its long term future.

"I think the comments demonstrate an absence of the proper understanding of business," he said. "One councillor said because it hasn't closed since the last application in 2011 it's just a hollow threat we are making.

"That's complete and utter nonsense."

Others have been pleased with the decisions to reject the runway, which many local councillors and residents had opposed.

East Surrey MP Sam Gyimah was delighted with the result, saying: "The proposed application would have had a substantial impact on the quality of life for residents, not to mention the fact the land is on green belt.

"The local residents and groups such as Keep Redhill Airport Green (KRAG) have done an excellent job in demonstrating the detrimental impact that a hard runway would have on the environment and local residents."

His thoughts were echoed by Jan Cook, a member of Salfords and Sidlow Parish Council, who spoke at the meeting on June 5.

She added: "It was clear that both councils had carefully considered the aerodrome's argument for a special case to develop in the green belt and had found it not proven.

"This result is a great relief for our residents after a long and worrying time."